Nathan McSweeney to push for Test recall in Cameron Green’s absence after Usman Khawaja retires

Despite McSweeney’s struggles against Indian spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, Travis Head’s success as an opener against England has opened the door for the right-hander to force his way into the side in a more familiar role in the middle order.

While Green travels to the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, McSweeney – who feels he is a better player for his stint in the Baggy Green – will have four Sheffield Shield games to prove his worth.

He will do so hopeful of recapturing the form he had when entering the Heat’s tournament, having struck an unbeaten 226 for Australia A against the England Lions.

“Facing Bumrah was a great challenge, and I am better for it. I feel like I’ve mentally got a different outlook on batting,” McSweeney said.

“Technically, I probably haven’t changed a whole heap, but I’ve continued to try and work out little ways I can adapt to each bowler. For me, it’s about trying not to be as fixed, and just adapt to what’s coming down at me.”

Opportunities will be plenty for Australian aspirants during a gruelling calendar, which could include as many as 21 Tests in 11 months.

The first nine matches in that schedule will be in more pace-friendly Australian and South African conditions. However, 2027’s tour to India will give the country’s leading spin players a chance to press their credentials.

Josh Inglis and McSweeney – who toured with the Test squad to Sri Lanka last year, and struck two half-centuries in three innings for Australia A in India – feature in that category.

“I was very lucky they took me over [to Sri Lanka], and I worked as hard as I could to try to work out a method that, if I were to play, I could implement. From all those experiences, if I did get an opportunity to play over there, I’d be better for it,” McSweeney said.

“There’s going to be opportunity, and I’d love to play for Australia again. I loved every minute of wearing the Baggy Green, and it’s something you think about every day.”

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